Jefferson Park Day Hike

• Hike type: Out and back
• Distance: ~12 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: ~2,000 feet
• High point: 5,900 feet
• Difficulty: Between moderate and difficult
• Hiking speed: 2-2.5 mph
• Driving Distance: ~5 hours round trip or ~240 miles
• Carpool Donation: $15 cash per person
• Dogs: No
• Permits: NW Forest Pass
• Warnings: Sun exposure due to past fire (first 3-4 miles of hike) and creek crossing, bring water crossing shoes and poles in case they are needed

This hike takes us to the beautiful alpine lake area of Jefferson Park with stunning views of Mt Jefferson. The first 3 to 4 miles were affected by 2020 wildfires so expect exposure due to the burned trees and lack of cover. Jefferson Park itself was not affected by the fires. There we can approach at least one of the lakes to explore some of the camp sites and have lunch. There is a stream crossing so bring water crossing shoes and poles in case there is no rock hopping or log crossing available. Permits are required even for day hikers, which I have for the group. I've not been on this trail before, but I have been to Jefferson Park via a different route.

We'll meet at the SE 72nd Ave entrance to the Mt. Scott Community Center at 7:50 am for carpooling. On-street parking is available for the day. Please arrive at 7:50 am so we can leave at 8:00. I can drive and accommodate 3 other hikers, past that limit, another driver will be needed. This is an all-day event lasting 12-13 hours with drive time so do not sign up if you need to be back to Portland by a certain time Friday evening. Bring the 10 essentials, at least 3L of water, extra water to leave in the car for the return, lunch and plenty of snacks.

If there is poor weather or less than 4 hikers sign up or show up, at my discretion, the hike may be cancelled at the last minute.

Here is a description of the hike from Oregon Hikers: https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Jefferson_Park_from_Whitewater_Trailhead_Hike

PARTICIPATE AT YOUR OWN RISK; Portland Hiking Meetup event organizers are volunteers. We assume no liability for your safety getting to or from the trailhead or on the hike. In case of accident, illness, or other incapacity, hikers must pay for their own medical and/or evacuation expenses, whether or not the hiker has specifically authorized them.